SAICE Vaal Star, in partnership with VUT, hosted an inspiring STEM outreach at Vuyo Primary School, encouraging Grade 7 learners to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
21 October 2025 | Story By: Tshepiso Kaibe | Picture: Peter Masela.
3 minutes read time.
Innovation and curiosity filled the air at Vuyo Primary School in Sharpeville as the South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE) Vaal Star, in partnership with the Vaal University of Technology (VUT), Eskom, the Department of Water and Sanitation, MICA, Mpu Designs and Aida Mxuma of Helplift Nextwork, hosted an inspiring STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) outreach programme aimed at nurturing the next generation of scientists and engineers. Held on 17 October 2025, the initiative brought together 69 Grade 7 learners to explore careers in STEAM.
The programme opened with Ms Mmatshepo Maina, Chairperson of the SAICE Vaal branch and proud VUT alumnus, who introduced learners to the organisation’s role as a professional body representing civil engineers across South Africa. She also highlighted the SAICE STAR (Success Through Academic Readiness) initiative, which focuses on preparing and motivating learners to pursue studies in STEAM fields. Ms Maina explained that the visit aimed to expose learners to various career paths in engineering and provide guidance on academic routes, whether through universities such as VUT or technical training at TVET colleges after Grade 9 or matric. She further commended VUT’s collaboration in supporting the outreach through logistics and refreshments, which contributed to the programme’s warm and engaging atmosphere.
Setting an interactive tone for the day, Ms Christina Mukwevho, a Civil Engineering student at VUT, active SAICE member, SAICE Vaal branch committee member, Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) Student Chapter Chairperson, VUT mentor, and Women in Engineering (WomEng) member, led an energising icebreaker that encouraged participation and curiosity among learners. She unpacked the different types of engineering as well as the field of civil engineering, outlining its key disciplines such as structural, water, geotechnical, and transportation engineering, and demonstrated how each contributes to sustainable community development and everyday life.
Entrepreneur Ms Tiny Tau, founder of Tiny Tau E Waste Management, captured learners’ attention with her story of transforming waste into opportunity. Her company collects and recycles electronic waste to ensure responsible disposal and protect the environment. With her message, “Waste is not waste until it is wasted,” she urged learners to embrace innovation, think sustainably, and consider entrepreneurship as a path to solving community challenges.
Representing Eskom, Mr Asiphe Jojo, a Civil Engineer in training, gave learners a glimpse into the country’s energy sector. He explained the process of generating electricity at Eskom’s Lethabong Station, where coal is converted into power, and highlighted the importance of Mathematics and Science in engineering careers. He encouraged learners to work hard and not be afraid to ask for help, reminding them that consistent effort and curiosity lead to excellence.
Adding a motivational voice, Mr Comfort Madalane from VUT’s Alumni Relations Department inspired learners to remain resilient and adaptable in the face of challenges. Drawing from Charles Darwin’s idea that survival depends on adaptability rather than strength, he reminded learners that success belongs to those who persevere, learn from setbacks and continue to evolve.
From the Department of Water and Sanitation, Mr Oscar Tinyiko Bungeni spoke about the department’s mission to manage and protect South Africa’s water resources. He explained the importance of clean water and sanitation to human health and development, encouraging learners to consider careers that promote sustainability and environmental conservation.
The final speaker, Dr William Nkomo from the University of Johannesburg’s Department of Construction Management and Quantity Surveying, delivered a heartfelt reflection on his journey from Sharpeville to academia. His story of determination and perseverance resonated deeply with learners, demonstrating that background should never limit ambition. He encouraged them to explore careers such as quantity surveying, which remain vital and in demand across the country.
The event concluded with interactive exhibitions that showcased creativity and innovation. Learners explored displays from VUT’s Idea2Product Lab, where they discovered 3D printing and design technologies, as well as exhibits from Mpu Designs, Aida Mnxuma and MICA, which featured arts, crafts, graphic design and practical engineering tools. The day ended on a hopeful note, as SAICE Vaal Star and VUT reaffirmed their commitment to inspiring young minds and cultivating future innovators who will shape a sustainable and progressive South Africa.